Angie Fox's embroidered artwork depicts theme words: Freedom-open door to a pathway across endless open vista, Justice- broken chains, God's peace and forgiveness- dove of peace and peace lily breaking through the pavement, Over all- rainbow representing the overreaching love and mercy of God.World Day of Prayer 2022

Prepared by the women of England, Wales and Northern Ireland (EWNI)

Theme - God's promise to his people when in Babylonian exile -

Jeremiah 29 verse 11: 'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord. 'Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.'

Opening prayers acknowledged falling short of caring for God's people and God's world, asking His forgiveness through Jesus' sacrifice on the cross and help to live and love as Jesus showed us.

Personal stories of three women from EWNI gave testimony to God's care through difficult circumstances and a realisation of the 'hope and a future' through their situations. God's plans for them have blessed them in very unexpected ways.

Prayers for those who are overwhelmed by poverty, hunger, loneliness, abuse, fear, disabilities, exclusion, displacement, exile, injustice and turmoil followed.

Thanksgiving prayers were spoken with the certainty of God's faithful love for all people, knowing He can be trusted.

The concluding prayer challenged participants to follow God's direction - -  God's plans which give us a hope and a future in Jesus Christ, knowing that in the daily challenges and joys, God is always with us.

Stourbridge crystal flower bowl, program cover, English roses, Waterford crystal goblets, souvenir glass commemorating the coronation of Q.Elizabeth II, Galway tea-set with clover pattern

Ladies from the Underbool Catholic Church had organised a small display of some items from EWNI.

Cross of St George (England) and St Andrew (Scotland), Flag of Great Britain, Cross of St Patrick (Ireland), Union Jack flag, Flag of Wales, St Michaels and All Angels church, Irish embroidery

Guest speaker was Emma Raine whose family had emigrated from England in 1980. Emma proudly showed the picture of her family's church in Houghton-Le-Spring in County Durham - St Michaels and All Angels church. She spoke of places she has visited on return visits made to England and the beauty of the country.

St Michaels and All Angels churchConversations together were then enjoyed over a cuppa and delicious morning tea that had been prepared.